How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"This gift always. Custom. Look." He mimed looking into the mirror. "In here, look your future." He smiled his always-smile. For the first time, Graceful saw that it was real. (13.117)
Gyaar gives Graceful a mirror for their betrothal simply because it's tradition. It's interesting that he says she can see her future in it, though, since traditions are rooted in the past.
Quote #8
Mam took her through the anteroom, the shrine proper, and then the little room at the back where boys were made men and girls were made women. There was a big wooden bathtub, the water in it steaming and smelling of herbs she knew and herbs strange to her. (14.41)
Pin's ceremony is chock-full of customs and rituals, many of which she does not fully understand. It's a cool window for us into the medieval world in the book, and if you want to know more about the ceremony, check out the "Symbols " to dig deeper.
Quote #9
"That tree was planted for my sister Shi-mii," he said. "When a girl-child is born to the Ryuu family, a tree is planted." With his own hand, he picked a spray of bloodflower blossom and gave it to her. (15.201)
It's settled then—Graceful will carry on the traditions of Uplanders, instead of Downlanders. At least that's what Gyaar seems to think. But if you go back and check this passage again, we think you'll find she makes no such promise to her new hubby. In fact, all she promises is that she will think about it.